Wootton St Peter’s Church of England Primary School, located in Wootton Village, Oxfordshire, has been rated as a good school following its inspection in March 2019. The leadership and management of the school are effective, with leaders successfully raising the quality of teaching, which has led to improved pupil achievement. The school has developed effective systems to closely track pupil progress and identify those at risk of falling behind, ensuring that timely interventions are in place. The leadership of special educational needs and disabilities is particularly strong, with pupils receiving the necessary support to make good progress, especially in mathematics.
The curriculum offered at Wootton St Peter’s is broad and balanced, engaging pupils and effectively developing their skills and knowledge. Safeguarding measures are robust, and pupils demonstrate a good understanding of how to keep themselves safe, including online safety. The quality of teaching is consistently good, with professional development enhancing teachers' subject knowledge and lesson planning. Pupils exhibit good behavior, supporting one another during play and learning, and they embody the school’s values. They appreciate the opportunities to take on responsibilities within the school and community, preparing them well for future educational stages.
The early years provision is also rated as good, with children making significant progress from their starting points and being well-prepared for Year 1. However, there are occasional gaps in the precision of assessments made by staff regarding children’s learning in the Reception Year, which can affect the planning of their next steps. Middle leadership has improved due to effective support from the local authority and a network of schools, although subject leaders are still developing their skills.
To further improve, the school needs to ensure that all teaching staff continue to develop their subject leadership skills and increase the level of challenge for pupils, particularly the most able. This includes ensuring that pupils transition promptly from basic calculations to applying their skills in problem-solving and enhancing opportunities for demonstrating subject-specific understanding in foundation subjects. Additionally, more precise assessments of children’s skills in the Reception Year are needed to inform their next steps effectively.
Governance at the school is strong, with governors actively involved in monitoring the school’s progress and ensuring that statutory responsibilities are met. They have effectively utilized support from the diocese and local authority to enhance their skills. The school’s financial oversight is commendable, particularly regarding the use of pupil premium funding to support disadvantaged pupils.
The school has created a positive environment where pupils feel safe and valued. The personal development and welfare of pupils are prioritized, with a strong emphasis on listening to their voices and addressing their concerns. Pupils enjoy a well-structured personal development program that teaches them essential life skills, including online safety. Their behavior is commendable, and they are motivated to achieve through a clear system of rewards and recognition.
Overall, Wootton St Peter’s Church of England Primary School demonstrates a commitment to continuous improvement, with effective leadership, quality teaching, and a supportive environment that fosters pupil growth and achievement. The school is well-regarded by parents, who appreciate the care and dedication of the staff, contributing to a thriving educational community.
